Process Design Engineer

Placements24; South Africa; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Career development and growth

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Process Design Engineer to contribute to development and optimization of chemical processes at a hybrid facility in Gauteng, South Africa.

You will collaborate with R&D, project engineering and operations to translate ideas into scalable, cost-effective manufacturing processes, using process simulation tools and delivering clear PFDs/P&IDs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• 3–5 years of process design experience in chemical or related industries.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (Aspen Plus, HYSYS, CHEMCAD preferred).
• Solid understanding of unit operations, thermodynamics and fluid mechanics.
• Experience with P&ID development and equipment specification.
• Familiarity with safety standards (HAZOP) and environmental regulations.

Responsibilities

• Develop PFDs and P&IDs for new and modified chemical processes.
• Perform detailed process simulations using industry-standard software.
• Conduct mass and energy balance calculations for unit operations and processes.
• Size and specify process equipment including reactors, heat exchangers, pumps, and separators.
• Evaluate new technologies and propose process improvements.
• Collaborate with R&D, project management and operations during design and commissioning.
• Support HAZOP studies and ensure safety and environmental compliance.
• Develop process descriptions, operating manuals and reports.
• Participate in pilot plant studies and scale-up activities.

Skills

Process design

PFD/P&ID development

Process simulation

Mass & energy balances

Equipment sizing

HAZOP

Safety compliance

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

CHEMCAD

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly expanding specialty chemicals producer, is seeking a talented Process Design Engineer to contribute to the development and optimization of new and existing chemical processes. This hybrid role requires a strong foundation in chemical engineering principles, coupled with hands‑on experience in process design and simulation. You will work closely with R&D, project engineering, and operations teams to translate conceptual ideas into robust, scalable, and cost‑effective manufacturing processes. This position involves a mix of in‑office collaboration at our Tembisa, Gauteng facility and remote work, offering flexibility while ensuring vital team synergy. The ideal candidate will be adept at using process simulation software, performing mass and energy balances, and developing P&IDs. You will play a key role in ensuring our client's processes meet high standards for safety, efficiency, and environmental compliance. We are looking for a detail‑oriented engineer who is passionate about innovation and contributing to tangible manufacturing advancements.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop process flow diagrams (PFDs) and piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs) for new and modified chemical processes.
• Perform detailed process simulations using industry‑standard software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS).
• Conduct mass and energy balance calculations for unit operations and entire processes.
• Size and specify process equipment, including reactors, heat exchangers, pumps, and separation units.
• Evaluate new technologies and propose innovative process improvements.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams, including R&D, project management, and operations, during the design and commissioning phases.
• Support HAZOP studies and ensure process designs adhere to safety and environmental regulations.
• Develop process descriptions, operating manuals, and technical reports.
• Participate in pilot plant studies and scale‑up activities as required.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• 3-5 years of experience in process design engineering within the chemical or related industries.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (Aspen Plus, HYSYS, CHEMCAD preferred).
• Solid understanding of unit operations, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics.
• Experience with P&ID development and equipment specification.
• Familiarity with safety standards (e.g., HAZOP) and environmental regulations.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing remote and office‑based tasks.
• Must reside within a reasonable commuting distance to Tembisa, Gauteng.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package with potential for annual bonuses.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility and work‑life balance.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
• Exposure to diverse chemical processes and innovative projects.
• Contribution to a company focused on sustainable chemical solutions.
• Health and wellness benefits package.